While her Wicked success is certainly a key juncture in Ariana Grande’s phenomenal career, she is quick to cast her mind back to a Florida Panthers hockey game when she was eight years old and her rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner charmed the crowd. “It was that moment on stage that truly ignited my passion for performing,” recalls the American pop star and actress, reflecting on the early signs of her impending greatness.
Ariana Grande-Butera entered the world in Boca Raton, Florida, on 26 June 1993 amid a rich cultural tapestry deeply woven with her Italian roots. “My grandmother was a huge inspiration for me as a child,” she reminisces. “She always pushed me to pursue my passions, and that childlike dream of singing became a fierce reality.”
Early Crescendo
Before her songs conquered the realm of music, she showcased her talents on the small screen, capturing the hearts of millions as the teenage Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon sitcom Victorious. “Acting was my first love, but music was always my priority,” she explains.
Her dual career blossomed during her time on Sam & Cat, another Nickelodeon hit, which emphasised her knack for comedy and her timing. Channelling the playful spirit of her character, Grande’s skits were filled with her signature wit. “I wanted to create something positive for young people instead of just being a cliché,” she declares, showcasing her deep understanding of the impact of representation.
Doing it Her Way
After stepping off the stage and into the studio at age 20, she dropped her debut album, Yours Truly (2013), which catapulted her into the limelight. Its success came with the hit single The Way. “When I first heard it on the radio, I felt like I was dreaming. It was a fast track to everything I had ever wanted,” she remarks. A blend of her R&B influences with a modern twist, the record set the tone for Grande’s career, proving she was more than just a former child star; she was a serious musician ready to break free from genre constraints.
She did just that in her sophomore effort, My Everything (2014), which included the hit Break Free and solidified her spot in the pop universe. The album’s lead song, Problem, featuring Australian rapper Iggy Azalea, became an international sensation. Grande beams as she recounts: “It was my anthem; it felt like everyone was singing along, and I couldn’t believe it!” With hooks that got stuck in your head and beats that made you dance, she was on top of the world, juggling a successful music career with her acting roots.
Rebounding from Atrocity
As she explored deeper into her artistry, the albums Sweetener (2018) and Thank U, Next (2019) charted her evolution from pop princess to musical powerhouse. “These albums were more personal,” she admits. “After the Manchester Arena attack [in 2017], I needed to reflect and heal, and music became my therapy.”
In Thank U, Next, she bravely acknowledges her past relationships with vulnerability and confidence – a powerful message that resonated with fans. “Every experience has shaped me into who I am today,” she continues. “I wanted women to know that it’s okay to embrace your journey.”
The accolades poured in, with Sweetener snagging a Grammy Award. Grande, who has rapidly amassed an array of awards, insists: “These honours are nice, but the real victory is seeing how my music helps people.” Her deeply rooted philosophies on kindness and empowerment thread through her discussions, further cementing her commitment to being a symbol of resilience and inspiration.
Voice for Women
Grande’s sixth studio album, Positions (2020), marked a distinct shift as she spotlighted her role as a woman embracing her sexuality, empowerment and responsibilities. “People often think that women should fit into boxes, but I believe I can be all-encompassing,” she declares. The album’s title track, along with collaborations like Stuck with U with Justin Bieber and Rain on Me with Lady Gaga, all achieved great commercial success, further placing her at the apex of the pop landscape.
As if her musical prowess wasn’t enough, Grande delved into business ventures including a cosmetics brand, R.E.M. Beauty and a stable of fragrances, the statement scent God is a Woman among them. “With every drop, I want to ensure that my fans see themselves in what I create,” she states emphatically. “It’s about building a community that keeps dreaming.”
Kindness in Every Cadence
Beyond her musical dominance, Grande has made significant strides in philanthropy and activism. From her initiatives supporting mental health and LGBTQ+ rights to her work after the Manchester bombing, she has proven to be a compassionate leader.
“I believe in using my platform for good,” she states resolutely. “It might just be a small spark, but together we can create major change.” Her efforts, including organising the One Love Manchester benefit concert, have raised millions and showed her profound commitment to her fans and community.
Glinda Glory
Last year proved a milestone in her career as she stepped into the magical world of musical theatre – her self-proclaimed first love – playing Glinda in the critically acclaimed film adaptation of Broadway blockbuster Wicked. “I had dreamed of this moment since I was just a little girl,” she shares, excitement dripping from her words. This transition from sitcom star and pop icon to Hollywood actress not only showcases her vocal abilities but also her range as a performer and a person.
“Finding roles that resonate with me, like Glinda, means I can inspire others to chase their dreams no matter their circumstances,” she adds, her empathy spilling over. Her performance was both universally hailed and Oscar-nominated, confirming that she has indeed paved her own path to stardom and credibility in the arts.
Legacy of Love
Ariana Grande stands poised as a cultural icon. Having sold more than 90 million records worldwide – a feat for which she might cry “I’m so xxxxin’ grateful” – she is one of the world’s most successful music artists. Yet, her relentless dedication suggests that we are far from witnessing the last of her magical touch.
“Every challenge I’ve faced only makes me stronger,” she remarks. “I want to continue to create art that speaks to people and reminds them that they are loved.” Through her journey, from a child star to an adult artist, Grande not only shares her gifts but also spreads a powerful message: find your voice and soar!